The Baltimore Ravens came away from Thursday Night Football with a much-needed win.
While this was the team’s preferred outcome, injuries to both Mark Andrews and Lamar Jackson were not ideal.
Andrews’ injury appeared much more serious than Jackson’s, as he was ruled out for the remainder of the contest.
Injuries certainly are a part of the game, but many believed Andrews’ was preventable, including head coach John Harbaugh.
In his postgame comments captured by reporter Jonas Shaffer, Harbaugh called this a “hip drop tackle,” also asking if it was “necessary” during this particular play.
John Harbaugh on the Logan Wilson play that likely ended Mark Andrews’ season: “It was definitely a hip drop tackle. … Was it even necessary in that situation?”
— Jonas Shaffer (@jonas_shaffer) November 17, 2023
As Shaffer mentioned, this tackle not only ended Andrews’ night but likely his season as well.
The hip-drop tackle has been a heavily-contested topic, especially during the NFL offseason.
Many doctors have found that this form of tackling has resulted in significant injuries.
This has led to coaches and teams wanting this banned from the league, or at least, having the NFL issue fines to those who tackle in this manner.
Andrews was the latest player to suffer a significant injury as a result of being tackled this way.
If significant injuries continue, especially to some of the league’s stars, further conversations will take place regarding this issue.
With Andrews out, the Ravens will need to find production from other players who will need to step up in his absence.
Isaiah Likely has shown flashes in the past when Andrews has been hurt, but it is difficult to truly replace Andrews’ level of output.
Odell Beckham Jr. could be in for an increased role, which was showcased late in this game after Andrews was ruled out.
